System and method for processing multi-directional frequency modulated continuous wave wireless backscattered signals

ABSTRACT

In an example, the present invention provides an FMCW sensor apparatus. The apparatus has at least three transceiver modules. Each of the transceiver modules has an antenna array to be configured to sense a back scatter of electromagnetic energy from spatial location of a zero degree location in relation to a mid point of the device through a 360 degrees range where each antenna array is configured to sense a 120 degree range. In an example, each of the antenna array has a support member, a plurality of receiving antenna, a receiver integrated circuit coupled to the receiving antenna and configured to receive an incoming FMCW signal and covert the incoming FMCW signal into a base band signal, and a plurality of transmitting antenna. Each antenna array has a transmitter integrated circuit coupled to the transmitting antenna to transmit an outgoing FMCW signal. The apparatus has a virtual antenna array configured from the plurality of receiving antenna and the plurality of transmitting antenna to form a larger spatial region using the virtual antenna array, than a physical spatial region of the plurality of receiving antenna.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is related to U.S. Ser. No. 16/103,829, filed onAug. 14, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to techniques, including a method, andsystem, for processing frequency modulated continuous wave (“FMCW”)signals using a plurality of antenna array. In an example, the pluralityof antenna array, including a receiving antenna array and a transmittingantenna array configured to capture and transmit signals in anomni-directional manner. Merely by way of examples, various applicationscan include daily life, and others.

Various conventional techniques exist for monitoring people within ahome or building environment. Such techniques include use of cameras toview a person. Other techniques include a pendant or other sensingdevice that is placed on the person to monitor his/her movement.Examples include Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) devices suchas LifeAlert® and Philips® LifeLine—each of which are just panic buttonsfor seniors to press in case of an emergency. Unfortunately, all ofthese techniques have limitations. That is, each of these techniquesfails to provide a reliable and high quality signal to accurately detecta fall or other life activity of the person being monitored. Many peopleoften forget to wear the pendant or a power source for the pendant runsout. Also, elderly people do not want to look like they are old so oftentimes, elderly people do not wear the pendant.

From the above, it is seen that techniques for identifying andmonitoring a person is highly desirable.

SUMMARY

According to the present invention, techniques related to a method, andsystem, for processing FMCW signals using a plurality of antenna arrayare provided. In an example, the plurality of antenna array, including areceiving antenna array and a transmitting antenna array configured tocapture and transmit signals in an omni-directional manner. Merely byway of examples, various applications can include daily life, andothers.

In an example, the present invention provides an FMCW sensor apparatus.The apparatus has at least three transceiver modules. Each of thetransceiver modules has an antenna array to be configured to sense aback scatter of electromagnetic energy from spatial location of a zerodegree location in relation to a mid point of the device through a 360degrees range where each antenna array is configured to sense a 120degree range. In an example, each of the antenna array has a supportmember, a plurality of receiving antenna, a receiver integrated circuitcoupled to the receiving antenna and configured to receive an incomingFMCW signal and covert the incoming FMCW signal into a base band signal,and a plurality of transmitting antenna. Each antenna array has atransmitter integrated circuit coupled to the transmitting antenna totransmit an outgoing FMCW signal. The apparatus has a virtual antennaarray configured from the plurality of receiving antenna and theplurality of transmitting antenna to form a larger spatial region usingthe virtual antenna array, than a physical spatial region of theplurality of receiving antenna.

In an example, the apparatus has a triangular configuration comprising afirst antenna array, a second antenna array, and a third antenna arrayincluded in the at least three antenna arrays to provide a 360 degreevisibility range as measured from a horizontal plane, and a 80 degreevisibility range as measured from a vertical plane normal to thehorizontal plane. The apparatus has a master control board coupled toeach of the support members, and configured in a normal directionalmanner with reference to each of the support members. The apparatus hasa housing enclosing the at least three transceiver modules.

The above examples and implementations are not necessarily inclusive orexclusive of each other and may be combined in any manner that isnon-conflicting and otherwise possible, whether they be presented inassociation with a same, or a different, embodiment or example orimplementation. The description of one embodiment or implementation isnot intended to be limiting with respect to other embodiments and/orimplementations. Also, any one or more function, step, operation, ortechnique described elsewhere in this specification may, in alternativeimplementations, be combined with any one or more function, step,operation, or technique described in the summary. Thus, the aboveexamples implementations are illustrative, rather than limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of a radar/wireless backscattering sensorsystem according to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a simplified diagram of a sensor array according to an exampleof the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a simplified diagram of a system according to an example ofthe present invention.

FIG. 4 is a detailed diagram of hardware apparatus according to anexample of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a simplified diagram of a hub in a spatial region according toan example of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a simplified diagram of a mini mode in a spatial regionaccording to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a simplified diagram of a mobile mode in a spatial regionaccording to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a simplified diagram of a hub device according to an example.

FIG. 9 is a simplified diagram of an ultra-wide band module for the hubaccording to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a simplified diagram of electrical parameters according to anexample for the ultra-wide band module in the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a simplified system diagram of the ultra-wide band moduleaccording to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is an example of antenna array parameters for the ultra-wideband module according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 is an example of antenna array configuration for the ultra-wideband module according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a simplified diagram of FMCW modules and antenna arraysaccording to examples of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a simplified illustration of three antenna arrays accordingto examples of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a table illustrating device parameters according to examplesof the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a simplified diagram of a system architecture for an FMCWdevice according to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a simplified diagram of an alternative system architecturefor an FMCW device according to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 18A is a simplified diagram of various elements in a microcontroller module according to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a simplified diagram of an alternative system architecturefor an FMCW device according to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a simplified illustration of each antenna in an arrayaccording to examples of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLES

According to the present invention, techniques related to a method, andsystem, for processing FMCW signals using a plurality of antenna arrayare provided. In an example, the plurality of antenna array, including areceiving antenna array and a transmitting antenna array configured tocapture and transmit signals in an omni-directional manner. Merely byway of examples, various applications can include daily life, andothers.

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of a radar/wireless backscattering sensorsystem 100 according to an example of the present invention. Thisdiagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope ofthe claims herein. In an example, the system is a wirelessbackscattering detection system. The system has a control line 101coupled to a processing device. The control line is configured with aswitch to trigger an initiation of a wireless signal. In an example, thesystem has a waveform pattern generator 103 coupled to the control line.The system has an rf transmitter 105 coupled to the waveform patterngenerator. The system has transmitting and receiving antenna 107. In anexample, the system has a transmitting antenna coupled to the rftransmitter and an rf receiver 105, which is coupled to an rf receivingantenna. In an example, the system has an analog front end comprising afilter 109. An analog to digital converter 111 coupled to the analogfront end. The system has a signal-processing device 113 coupled to theanalog to digital converter. In a preferred example, the system has anartificial intelligence module 113 coupled to the signal-processingdevice. The module is configured to process information associated witha backscattered signal captured from the rf receiving antenna. Furtherdetails of the present system can be found through out the specificationand more particularly below.

Antenna

In an example, multiple aspects of antenna design can improve theperformance of the activities of daily life (“ADL”) system. For examplein scanning mode the present technique continuously looks for movinghuman targets (or user) to extract ADL or fall. Since these can happenanywhere in the spatial region of a home, the present system hasantennas that have wide field of view. Once the human target isidentified, the technique focuses signals coming only from thatparticular target and attenuate returns from all other targets. This canbe done by first estimating location of the target from our techniqueusing wide field of view antennas and then focusing RF energy on thespecific target of interest once it has been identified. In an example,the technique can either electronically switch a different antenna thathas narrow field of view or could use beam forming techniques tosimultaneously transmit waves from multiple transmit antenna and controltheir phase such that the RF energy constructively builds around thetarget of interest where as it destructively cancels everywhere else.This return will be much cleaner and can boost the performance of ourADL+fall+vital sign sensors.

In another example considers the layout of the antennas itself. In anexample, the technique places transmit and receive antennas in variousdifferent physical configurations (ULA, circular, square, etc.), thatcan help us establish the direction from which the radar signal returns,by comparing phases of the same radar signal at different receivingantennas. The configurations can play a role because differentconfigurations enable direction of arrival measurement from differentdimensions. For example, when the human target falls the vertical angleof arrival changes from top to bottom, therefore a vertical ULA isbetter suited to capture that information. Likewise during walkinghorizontal angle of arrival of the signal varies more therefore it makessense to use horizontal ULA is more sensitive and therefor can provideadditional information for our algorithm. Of course, there can be othervariations, modifications, and alternatives.

RF Unit

In an example, the wireless RF unit can be either pulsed doppler radaror frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) or continuous wave doppler(CW). In an example, on the transmit side it will have standard RF unitslike VCO, PLL, among others. On the receive side it can have matchedfilter, LNA, mixer, and other elements. The multiple antennas can beeither driven by a single transmit/receive chain by sharing it in timeor have one each chain for each of the antennas.

Waveform Unit

In an example, waveform pattern generator generates control signals thatdefine the type of radar signal that is generated by the radar RF unit.For example for FMCW, it can generate triangular wave of specific slopeand period, which will linearly sweep the frequency of the RF unitaccording to this parameter. For a pulsed doppler radar, the techniquewill hold generate pulse of specific width and period, which willmodulate the RF output accordingly.

Baseband Unit

In an example, the gain and filter stage filters the radar returns toremove any unwanted signals and then amplifies the remaining signal withdifferent techniques. For example, the present artificial intelligenceor AI technique can determine what target is desirably tracked andprovide feedback to the AI technique, that will filter out radar returnfrom any and all other signals except for the signal that is desirablytracked. If human target is moving the return signal will befluctuating, in that case, the technique applies automatic gain control(AGC) to find the optimal gain, so that entire dynamic range of ADC inthe subsequent stage is satisfied. In an example, the return signal isconverted to digital samples by analog-to-digital converters (ADC),among other front-end elements.

FIG. 2 is a simplified diagram of a sensor array 200 according to anexample of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example,which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. Shown is asensor array. The sensor array includes a plurality of passive sensors201. In an example, the plurality of passive sensors are spatiallydisposed in spatial region of a living area. The sensor array has activesensors, such as one or more radar sensors 203. Additionally, the arrayhas a feedback interface 205, such as a speaker for calling out to ahuman target in the spatial region of the living area.

In an example, the present technique is provided to identify variousactivities in home using non-wearable. In an example, the technique isat least privacy intrusive as possible, and will use sensors that areless intrusive. Examples of sensors can include, without limitation, awireless backscatter (e.g., radar, WiFi.), audio (e.g., microphonearray, speaker array), video (e.g., PTZ mounted, stereo), pressure mats,infrared, temperature, ultraviolet, humidity, pressure, smoke, anycombination thereof, and others.

Active Sensor for RADAR

In an example, the technique can use wireless backscattering to measuremotion of human, a location, and an environmental state, such as dooropening/closing, or other environmental condition. In an example, thewireless backscattering can also be used to measure a vital sign, suchas a heart rate and respiration rate, among others. In an example, thewireless techniques can work in non-line of sight, and is non intrusivecompared to camera or microphone, or others. In an example, thetechnique can use radar\backscatter sensor for two purposes (1) to findthe location of an action; and (2) sense different activities associatedwith the action. Of course, there can be other variations,modifications, and alternatives.

In an example, the present technique and system includes a radar systemthat operates on multiple frequency bands, such as below 10 GHz, around24 GHz, 60 GHz, 77-81 GHz, among others. In an example, differentfrequency interacts differently with various objects in our environment.In an example, available signal bandwidth and permissible signal powerare also regulated differently at different frequency bands. In anexample, the present techniques optimally combine reflections comingfrom a reflector from multiple frequency bands to achieve largecoverage, and/or improve accuracy. Of course, there can be othervariations, modifications, and alternatives.

In an example, each radar is working at a particular frequency band willbe using multiple transmit and receive antennas, as shown. In anexample, using these multiple transmitters, the technique can performtransmit beam forming to concentrate radar signal on a particulartarget. In an example, the technique uses multiple receivers to collectreflected signals coming from various reflectors (e.g., human body,walls). After further processing this will allow us to find thedirection of the reflector with respect to the radar. In an example, thetechnique also uses multiple transmitter and receiver to form virtualarray, this will allow emulate the radar array with large element byusing small number of transmitter and receiver chains. The main benefitis to improve the angle resolution without using a large array, savingspace and component cost. In an example, different antenna arrayconfigurations to improve coverage (using beam forming) or add 3Dlocalization capability (using 2-D array) are included.

In an example using standard radar signal modulation techniques, such asFMCW/UWB, on MIMO radar, the technique will first separate signalscoming from different range and angle. The technique will then identifystatic reflectors, such as chairs, walls, or other features, from movingones, such as human targets, pets, or the like. For moving objects thatare tracked, the technique will further process signals for each of thereflectors. As an example, the technique will use different techniquesto extract raw motion data (e.g., like spectrogram). In an example, thetechnique will apply various filtering process to extract periodicsignals generated by vital signs, such as heart rate, respiration rate,among others. In an example, both the raw motion data and extractedvital signs will be passed to a downstream process, where they arecombined with data from other sensors, such as radar outputs operatingat different frequency or completely different sensors to extract higherinsights about the environment. Of course, there can be othervariations, modifications, and alternatives.

Audio Sensor

In an example, the present technique uses a sensor array that has amultiple microphone array. In an example, these microphones will be useto ascertain the direction of arrival of any audio signal in theenvironment. In an example, the microphone in conjunction with othersensors, such as radar, will be vital in performing two tasks: 1st itwill augment radar signal to identify various activities (walkingproduces a different sound than sitting), if the target is watching TVit is much easier to ascertain it with audio signal; and 2nd in case ofemergency like fall, the technique can use the radar signal to identifythe location of the fall and then beam form microphone array towardsthat location, so that any audio signal produced by the target can becaptured. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, andalternatives.

Sensor Fusion and Soft Sensors

In addition to a radar sensor, which is consider as active sensors thepresent sensor system (e.g., box, boxes) will also have additionalpassive sensors that captures the sound, chemical signature,environmental conditions. Each of these of the sensors capturesdifferent context about the home that the human being tracking is livingin or occupying. In an example, the UV sensor can monitor how often thesunlight comes in the room. In an example, light sensors determine alighting condition of the human's home or living area.

In an example, a microphone array can have many functions, such as useto sense sound in the room, to figure out how long the human has spentwatching TV, or how many time they went to bathroom by listening to thesound of toilet flushing or other audio signature. In an example, thepresent technique can use creative solutions where it can use the activesensor to find the location of the person and then tune the microphonearray to enhance the sound coming from that location only, among otherfeatures. In an example, the technique can call the sensors that arederived from the hardware sensors using specific algorithms as softwaresensors or soft sensors. So the same hardware sensors can be used formany different applications by creating different software sensors. Herethe software sensors can combine signals from one or more sensors andthen apply sensor fusion and AI techniques to generate the desiredoutput. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, andalternatives.

Soft Sensor for Detecting Cooking and Eating Habits

In example, radar sensors can determine information about a human'slocation within a home, like if they are in kitchen area, or other. Inan example, when the human target turns on the microphone oven, itgenerates specific RF signature that can be tracked. In an example, thetechnique can combine this information to infer if the human targetwalked to the kitchen and turned on the microphone. Likewise, when thehuman target prepares food in kitchen he/she can make lot of specificnoise like utensils clattering, chopping, or other audio signature. Soif a human target goes to kitchen spends sometime time in the kitchen,and the present microphone pick these sounds, the technique can inferthat food is cooking or other activity.

Soft Sensor for Detecting Bathroom Habits

In an example, toileting frequency can be a very valuable indication ofones wellness. The present technique can track if a human went to thebathroom using the radar or other sensing techniques. In an example,additionally, the technique can pick sound signature of toilet flushing.In an example, the technique combines these two pieces of information,which can be correlated to toileting frequency. In an example,similarly, bathing is a unique activity that requires 4-5 minutes ofspecific movements. By learning those patterns, the technique can figureout ones bathing routines.

Soft Sensor for Detecting Mobile Habits

In an example, different sensors are triggered by different motion of ahuman target. In an example, radar can detect human fall by looking atmicro doppler patterns generating by different part of the target duringfalls. In an example, the technique can also simultaneously hear a fallfrom microphone arrays and vibration sensors. In an example, thetechnique can also detect how pace of movement changes for an individualover a long duration by monitoring the location information provided byradar or other sensing technique. In an example, likewise, the techniquecan gather unstable transfers by analyzing the gait of the target. In anexample, the technique can find front door loitering by analyzing theradar signal pattern. In an example, the technique can figure outimmobility by analyzing the radar return. In this case, the techniquecan figure out the target's presence by analyzing the target's vitalsigns, such as respiration rate or heart rate or by keeping track of thebread crumb of the target's location trace.

In any and all of the above cases, the technique can also learn aboutthe exact environmental condition that triggered a particular state. Forexample, the technique can figure out whether a human target wasimmobile because the target was watching TV or a video for long durationor the target was simply spending a lot of time in their bed. And thesecan be used to devise incentives to change the target's behavioralpattern for better living.

Soft Sensor for Detecting Vital Signs

In an example, the technique can estimate vital signs of a person bysensing the vibration of the target's body in response to the breathingor heart beat, each of the actions results in tiny phase change in theradar return signals, which can be detected. In an example, thetechnique will use several signal processing techniques to extract them.Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, andalternatives.

In an example, different frequency radio wave interact with environmentdifferently. Also phase change due to vital signs (HR,RR) differs byfrequency, for example phase change for a 77 GHz radar is much higherthan for a 10 GHz radar. Thus 77 GHz is more appropriate for estimatingheart-beat more accurately. But higher frequency typically attenuatesmuch more rapidly with distance. Therefore, lower frequency radar canhave much larger range. By using multi-frequency radar in the presenttechnique can perform these vital trade-offs.

Soft Sensor for Detecting Sleeping Habits

In an example, the present radar sensors can detect motions that aregenerated during sleep, such as tossing and turning. In an example,radar sensors can also sense vital signs like respiration rate and heartrate as described earlier. In an example, now combining the pattern oftoss and turn and different breathing and heart beat pattern, thetechnique can effectively monitor the target's sleep. Additionally, thetechnique can now combine results from passive sensors, such as athermometer, UV, photo diode, among others, to find correlation betweencertain sleep pattern and the environmental conditions. In an example,the technique can also use the sleep monitor soft sensor to learn aboutday/night reversal of sleep, and the associated environmental conditionby looking at different passive sensors. In an example, the techniquescan be valuable in providing feedback to improve the human target'ssleep. For example, the technique can determine or learn that certainenvironmental condition results in better sleep and prescribe that toimprove future sleep.

Soft Sensor for Security Applications

In an example, the technique can repurpose many of the sensors describedbefore for security applications. For a security application, thetechnique determines where one or more person is located, which can bedetected using a presence detection sensor that is build on top of radarsignals. In an example, the technique can eliminate one or many falsepositive triggered by traditional security systems. For example, is awindow is suddenly opened by a wind the technique (and system) will lookat presence of human in the vicinity before triggering the alarm.Likewise, combination of vital signs, movement patterns, among others,can be used a biometric to identify any human target. If an unknownhuman target is detected in the vicinity at certain time of the day, thetechnique can trigger an alarm or alert.

In an example, any one of the above sensing techniques can be combined,separated, or integrated. In an example, n addition to radar and audiosensors, other sensors can be provided in the sensor array. Of course,there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

FIG. 3 is a simplified diagram of a system 300 according to an exampleof the present invention. This diagram is merely an example, whichshould not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. As shown, thesystem has hardware and method (e.g., algorithm), cloud computing,personalized analytics, customer engagement, and an API to variouspartners, such as police, medical, and others. Further details of thepresent system can be found throughout the present specification andmore particularly below.

FIG. 4 is a detailed diagram 400 of hardware apparatus according to anexample of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example,which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. As shown,the hardware units include at least a hub device 401, node 403, andmobile node 405, each of which will be described in more detail below.

In an example, the hub includes various sensing devices. The sensingdevices, include, among others, a radar, a WiFi, a Bluetooth, a Zigbeesniffer, a microphone and speakers, a smoke detector, a temperaturedetector, a humidity detector, a UV detector, a pressure detector, MEMS(e.g., accelerometer, gyroscope, and compass), a UWB sensors (forfinding locations of all the deployed elements relative to each other),among others. In an example, the hub is a gateway to internet via WiFi,GSM, Ethernet, landline, or other technique. The hub also connects toother units (Mini Node/Mobile Node) via Bluetooth, WiFi, Zigbee, UWB andcoordinates them with each other. In an example, certain dataprocessing, such as noise removal, feature extraction to reduce amountof data uploaded to cloud is included. In an example, the hub alone canbe sufficient to cover a small living space. In an example, the hub isdeployed as a single device somewhere in a desirable location (e.g.,middle of the living space) so that it has good connectivity to allother units. An example of such deployment is provided in the Figurebelow.

FIG. 5 is a simplified diagram 500 of a hub in a spatial regionaccording to an example of the present invention. This diagram is merelyan example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claimsherein. As shown, the hub is deployed in the middle of the living spacein a house.

In an example, as shown in FIG. 6, the system 600 has sensors, which isa subset of sensors in the hub. The sensors are configured to in variousspatial locations to improve coverage area and improve accuracy fordetection of critical events (e.g., fall, someone calling for help). Thesensors also communicate with the hub via WiFi, Bluetooth, ZigBee orUWB, or other technique. Additionally, the sensors or each mini node isdeployed in a bathrooms, where chances of fall is high, a kitchen, wherewe can learn about eating habits by listening to sounds, RF waves,vibrations, or a perimeter of the living space, that will allow us tolearn approximate map of the space under consideration, among otherlocations. Additionally, each of the mini nodes can save power and costsby adding more complexity on the hub. This can even enable us to operateon battery for extended periods. For example, each of the nodes can haveonly single antenna WiFi and hub could have multiple antennas, for WiFibased sensing. Additionally, each of the nodes use simpler radar (e.g.,single antenna doppler) vs MIMO FMCW in the HUB. Additionally, each nodecan be configured with a single microphone whereas the hub can havearray of microphone. Of course, there can be other variations,modifications, and alternatives. As shown, each node is configured in akitchen, shower, perimeter, or other location.

FIG. 7 is a simplified diagram 700 of a mobile node according to anexample of the present invention. This diagram is merely an example,which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. In anexample, each mobile node is a subset of sensors in the hub. The mobilenode sensors include a camera such as RGB or IR. In an example, each ofthe nodes and hub collaboratively figure out interesting events, andpass that information to the mobile node. The technique then goes to thelocation and probes further. In an example, the camera can be useful tovisually find what is going on in the location. In an example, freewillpatrolling can be use to detect anything unusual or to refine details ofthe map created based on perimeter nodes. In an example, onboard UWB canenable precise localization of the mobile node, which can also enablewireless tomography, where the precise RGB and wireless map of theliving space is determined. As shown, the mobile node, such as a mobilephone or smart phone or other movable device, can physically movethroughout the spatial location. The mobile node can also be a drone orother device. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications,and alternatives. Further details of an example of a hub device can befound throughout the present specification and more particularly below.

FIG. 8 is a simplified diagram of a hub device 800 according to anexample of the present invention. As shown, the hub device has acylindrical housing 801 having a length and a diameter. The housing hasan upper top region and a lower bottom region in parallel arrangement toeach other. In an example, the housing has a maximum length of six totwenty four inches and width of no longer than six inches, althoughthere can be other lengths and widths, e.g., diameters. In an example,the housing has sufficient structural strength to stand upright andprotect an interior region within the housing.

In an example, the housing has a height characterizing the housing froma bottom region to a top region. In an example, a plurality of levels803 are within the housing numbered from 1 to N, wherein N is an integergreater than two, but can be three, four, five, six, seven, and others.

As shown, various elements are included. A speaker device 809 configuredwithin the housing and over the bottom region, as shown. The hub devicealso has a compute module 811 comprising a processing device (e.g.,microprocessor) over the speaker device. The device has an artificialintelligence module configured over the compute module, a ultra-wideband (“UWB”) module 813 comprising an antenna array configured over theartificial intelligence module, and a frequency modulated continuouswave (“FMCW”) module 815 with an antenna array configured over the UWCmodule. In an example, the FMCW module being configured to processelectromagnetic radiation in a frequency range of 24 GHz to 24.25 GHz.In an example, the FMCW module outputs an FMCW signal using atransmitter, and receives back scattered signals using a receiver, suchas a receiver antenna. The device has an audio module configured overthe FMWC module and an inertial measurement unit (“IMU”) moduleconfigured over the FMCW module. In an example, the audio modulecomprises a microphone array for detecting energy in a frequency rangeof sound for communication and for detecting a sound energy. In anexample, the IMU module comprises at least one motion detection sensorconsisting of one of a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a magnetic sensor,or other motion sensor, and combinations thereof.

As shown, the speaker device, the compute module, the artificialintelligence module, the UWB module, the FMCW module, the audio module,and the IMU module are arranged in a stacked configuration andconfigured, respectively, in the plurality of levels numbered from 1 toN. In an example, the speaker device comprises an audio outputconfigured to be included in the housing. As shown, the speaker deviceis spatially configured to output energy within a 360 degree range froma midpoint of the device.

In an example, the compute module comprises a microprocessor based unitcoupled to a bus. In an example, the compute module comprises a signalprocessing core, a micro processor core for an operating system, asynchronizing processing core configured to time stamp, and synchronizeincoming information from each of the FMCW module, IMU module, and UWBmodule.

In an example, the device further comprises a real time processing unitconfigured to control the FMCW switch or the UWB switch or other switchrequiring a real time switching operation of less than ½ milliseconds ofreceiving feedback from a plurality of sensors.

In an example, the device has a graphical processing unit configured toprocess information from the artificial intelligence module. In anexample, the artificial intelligence module comprises an artificialintelligence inference accelerator configured to apply a trained moduleusing a neural net based process. In an example, the neural net basedprocess comprises a plurality of nodes numbered form 1 through N.Further details of the UWB module can be found throughout thespecification and more particularly below.

FIG. 9 is a simplified diagram of an ultra-wide band module 900 for thehub according to an example of the present invention. As shown isultra-wide band rf sensing apparatus or module. In an example, theapparatus has at least three antenna arrays 901, 903, 905 configured tosense a back scatter of electromagnetic energy from spatial location ofa zero degree location in relation to a mid point of the device througha 360 degrees range where each antenna array is configured to sense a120 degree range. As shown, each of the three antenna arrays comprises asupport member, a plurality of transmitting antenna 909 spatiallyconfigured on a first portion of the support member. The support memberalso has a transmitting integrated circuit coupled to each of theplurality of transmitting antenna and configured to transmit an outgoingUWC signal. Each of the antenna array also has a plurality of receivingantenna spatially configured on second portion of the support member.The support member also has a receiving integrated circuit coupled toeach of the plurality of receiving antenna and configured to receive anincoming UWB signal and configured to convert the UWC signal into a baseband.

In an example, the device has a triangular configuration comprising afirst antenna array, a second antenna array, and a third antenna arrayincluded in the at least three antenna arrays. The three arrays providea 360 degree visibility range as measured from a horizontal plane, and a80 degree visibility range as measured from a vertical plane normal tothe horizontal plane. As previously noted, the three arrays are enclosedin a housing that provides mechanical support. In an example, each ofthe sensor arrays is provided on a substrate member to be configured inthe triangular configuration. The substrate member has a face arrangedin a normal manner in a direction to each of the support members.

In an example, the UWB module can operate at a center frequency of 7.29GHz and a bandwidth of −1.5 GHz with multiple antenna arrays to achievethe FCC/ETSI compliance standard. In an example, the module has acombined horizontal field-of-view of 360 degrees about a center point ofthe module. In an example, the module has a range greater than 10meters, but can be shorter and longer. In an example, the module isconfigured to achieve a transmission and a receive rate of frames persecond (FPS) equal to or greater than 330 per Tx-Rx. In an example, themodule has a combined horizontal field of view of 360 degrees achievedusing three (3) antenna arrays, each of which covering 120 degrees. Inan example, each antenna array comprises of 1-TX and 4-RX. Each antennaarray is configured to complete the acquisition of a frame within 1millisecond or less. Accordingly, a total of three (3) millisecondscovers all three (3) sectors, achieving a frame rate of 330 fps persector (per Tx-Rx) in an example. In an example, the module hasprogrammability of various parameters similar to Novelda X4M03 module.In an example, the module is a hybrid architecture that has four by fourradar integrated circuit devices in MIMO configuration that switchesbetween the three antenna arrays. The configuration is capable ofsimultaneous capturing of all four Rx frames in an antenna array.Further details of the present UWB module is provided throughout thepresent specification and more particularly below.

FIG. 10 is a simplified diagram 1000 of electrical parameters accordingto an example for the ultra-wide band module. In an example, variousparameters are as listed in the table. Each of the parameters listed aresuggested and can be adjusted to minimize cost and complexity, whilestill achieving performance. In an example, the module has a datatransfer of 3.2 MBps (e.g., 330 fps×200 frame length×2 bytes×2×4receivers×3 modules. In an example, the module can include a microcontroller unit to communicate with X4 SoC through an SPI interface. Inan example, a central processing unit communicates with a compute modulethrough a serial interface such as a universal serial bus, i.e., USB.The micro controller is configured on a board with sufficient memory tostore raw data. In an example, the memory has a capacity of greater than128 MB such as a 128 MB SDRAM. Further details of the electricalparameters configured within a system diagram are provided below.

FIG. 11 is a simplified system diagram 1100 of the ultra-wide bandmodule according to an example of the present invention. As shown, thesystem has a micro controller 1101, such as an integrated circuit soldunder ATSAM4E16E by Microchip Technology Inc. of 2355 West ChandlerBlvd., Chandler, Ariz., USA 85224-6199. The micro controller has aserial interface, such as the universal serial interface, USB. Thecontroller is coupled to random access memory 1105 for storing raw data,and a clock and other miscellaneous circuits 1103. In an example, theoutput of the controller communicates 1107 with four XETHRU X4 SoCsmanufactured by Novelda AS of Norway.

In an example, the basic components of the X4 SoC are a transmitter, areceiver, and related control circuits. The system is controlled by asystem controller and is configurable through a 4(6)-wire serialperipheral interface (SPI). In an example, the X4 receive path (RX)consists of a low noise amplifier (LNA), a digital-to-analog converter(DAC), 1536 parallel digital integrators as well as an output memorybuffer, accessible through the SPI. The RX is tightly integrated withthe transmitter (TX) and is designed for coherent integration of thereceived energy. The X4 transmit path (TX) consists of a pulse generatorcapable of generating pulses at a rate of up to 60.75 MHz. The outputfrequency and bandwidth are designed to fit worldwide regulatoryrequirements. The radar transceiver is able to operate completelyautonomously and can be programmed to capture data at predefinedintervals and then alert or wake up a host MCU or DSP through dedicatedinterrupt pins. A power management unit controls the on-chip voltageregulators and enables low-power applications to use efficient dutycycling by powering down parts of the circuit when they are not needed.The system can be configured to consume less than 1 mW in idle mode whenall analog front end components are turned off. As shown, each of thefour X4 SoCs is coupled in parallel to a switch.

In an example, the switch 1109 is coupled to each antenna array asshown. In an example, the switch can be one listed underHMC241/HMC7992/ADRF5040 SP4T RF Switches of Analog Devices, Inc. Theswitches are non-reflective RF switches from DC to 12 GHz for 4Gcellular, milcom, and radio applications. Examples of HMC241, HMC7992,and ADF5040 are radio frequency (RF) nonreflective/absorptive singlepull, quad throw (SP4T) switches that can interface with 3.3 V, TTL,LVTTL, CMOS, and LVCMOS logic. The switches operate from DC to 12 GHzfrequency range. The HMC241 is a GaAs MMIC RF switch that operates inthe DC to 4 GHz range. The switch takes a single supply at +5 V. TheHMC7992 has a 100 MHz to 6 GHz frequency range. The ESD rating is forthis switch 2 kV (HBM) class 2. The HMC7992 takes a single voltagesupply from ±3.3 V to +5 V. The ADRF5040 comes in a small 4 mm×4 mmLFCSP package and requires a dual ±3.3 V supply. The switch operates inthe 9 kHz to 12 GHz range. The ADRF5040 has the added benefit of being 4kV (HBM) ESD rating. HMC241, HMC7992, and ADF5040 are ideal for 4Gcellular infrastructure such as base stations and repeaters as well asmilitary communications and industrial test and measurementapplications. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications,and alternatives.

In an example, the UWC module comprises a switch configured between aplurality of UWC transceivers. The switch is configured to select one ofthe three antenna arrays to sense the back scatters while the other twoantenna arrays are turned off. In an example, the switch is an rf switchsuch as the one listed under part number ADRF-5040 manufactured byAnalog Devices, Inc. In an example, the UWC module also has a controllerconfigured to control the switch and the three antenna array. In anexample, the controller cycles through a predetermined process to decidewhich one of the three antenna array to activate while the other twoantenna arrays are turned off.

In an example, the at least three antenna array are configured to senseelectromagnetic energy ranging from 6 to 8 GHz in frequency. As noted,the sensing apparatus is spatially positioned within a center of ageographic location of a room to detect movement of human user.

In an example, the present invention provides a method processing anelectromagnetic signal generated from an ultra wide band rf signal todetect an activity of a human user. Referring to FIG. 11, the methodincludes generating a base band outgoing UWC signal from a transmittingintegrated circuit, which is coupled to a micro controller device. Themethod includes transferring and then receiving the base band outgoingUWC signal at a switch device, which is coupled to the micro controller.The switch is configured to direct the outgoing UWC signal using theswitch device to one of three antenna arrays. In an example, the threeantenna array have been configured in a triangular configuration totransmit the outgoing UWC signal from spatial location of a zero degreelocation in relation to a mid point of the device through a 360 degreesvisibility range where each antenna array is configured to sense a 120degree range in a horizontal plane. Each of the antenna array isconfigured to sense and transmit at least an 80 degree visibility rangeas measured from a vertical plane that is normal to the horizontalplane. In an example, each of the three antenna arrays comprise asupport member, a plurality of transmitting antenna spatially configuredon a first portion of the support member, a transmitting integratedcircuit coupled to each of the plurality of transmitting antenna andconfigured to transmit the outgoing UWC signal. Each of the antennaarray also has a plurality of receiving antenna spatially configured onsecond portion of the support member. The antenna array also has areceiving integrated circuit coupled to each of the plurality ofreceiving antenna and configured to receive an incoming UWB signal andconfigured to convert the UWC signal into a base band. In an example,the method also receives a back scattered electromagnetic signal causedby an activity of a human user redirecting the outgoing UWB signal. Inan example, the received signals are processed, using the artificialintelligence module to form an output. Of course, there can be othervariations, modifications, and alternatives.

FIG. 12 is an example 1200 of antenna array parameters for theultra-wide band module according to the present invention. As shown,each antenna array has one 1-Tx and four 4-Rx. Each Tx/Rx is designed tocover 120 degree azimuth field of view and maximize elevation field ofview as desirable. In an example, serial fed patch antennas can be used.In an example, the antennas are fabrication using material such as aRogers 4350 substrate. In an example, the antennas can be an integratedWiFi filter, if desired, optimized for frequencies between 6.0 and 8.5GHz. In an example, the antenna is designed for FCC/ETSI Compliant forTX Center frequency. Of course, there can be other variations,modifications, and alternatives.

FIG. 13 is an example of antenna array configuration 1300 for theultra-wide band module according to the present invention. As shown, theantenna array is spatially provided on a support member, such as aboard. The antenna array comprises four (4) Rx in an antenna array thatare in a two-dimensional (2D) configuration as shown. The Rx4 is alignedwith Rx1, Rx2 or Rx3, and separated by lambda over two, as shown. Eachof the antennas is separated by lambda over two, as shown. Of course,there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

In an example, the present invention provides a method processing anelectromagnetic signal generated from an ultra wide band rf signal todetect an activity of a human user. In an example, the method includesgenerating a base band outgoing UWC signal. The method also includesreceiving the base band outgoing UWC signal at a switch device anddirecting the outgoing UWC signal using the switch device to one ofthree antenna arrays configured in a triangular configuration totransmit the outgoing UWC signal from spatial location of a zero degreelocation in relation to a mid point of the device through a 360 degreesvisibility range where each antenna array is configured to sense a 120degree range in a horizontal plane. Each of the antenna array isconfigured to sense and transmit at least an 80 degree visibility rangeas measured from a vertical plane that is normal to the horizontalplane.

In an example, each of the three antenna arrays has a support member,e.g., board, printed circuit board. In an example, each array has aplurality of transmitting antenna spatially configured on a firstportion of the support member, a transmitting integrated circuit coupledto each of the plurality of transmitting antenna and configured totransmit the outgoing UWC signal, a plurality of receiving antennaspatially configured on second portion of the support member, and areceiving integrated circuit coupled to each of the plurality ofreceiving antenna and configured to receive an incoming UWB signal andconfigured to convert the UWC signal into a base band signal. In anexample, the method includes receiving a back scattered electromagneticsignal caused by an activity of a human user redirecting the outgoingUWB signal.

The apparatus of claim 11 wherein the UWB module comprises a microcontroller unit coupled to a memory resource, and a clock circuit, themicro controller unit being configured with a universal serial businterface coupled to the compute module; wherein the compute module isconfigured with the artificial intelligence module to processinformation from the back scattered electro magnetic signal from thebase band signal to detect the activity of the human entity.

In an example, the support member comprises a major plane positionednormal to a direction of gravity.

In an example, the antenna array comprises at least three antenna arrayspatially arranged in a triangular configuration comprising a firstantenna array, a second antenna array, and a third antenna arrayincluded in the at least three antenna arrays to provide a 360 degreevisibility range as measured from a horizontal plane, and a 80 degreevisibility range as measured from a vertical plane normal to thehorizontal plane. In an example, the antenna array comprises at leastthree antenna array spatially arranged in a triangular configurationcomprising a first antenna array, a second antenna array, and a thirdantenna array included in the at least three antenna arrays to provide a360 degree visibility range as measured from a horizontal plane, and a80 degree visibility range as measured from a vertical plane normal tothe horizontal plane, and further comprising a controller configured tocontrol a switch coupled with each of the three antenna array, thecontroller cycles through a predetermined process to decide which one ofthe three antenna array to activate while the other two antenna arraysare turned off.

In an example, each antenna array comprises 1-TX and 4-RX.

In an example, the system has a switch device coupled between each ofthe antenna array and four receive lanes each of which is coupled to thereceiving integrated circuit device, one transmit lane coupled to atransmitting integrated circuit device, and a micro controller unitcoupled to a bus coupled to the receiving integrated circuit device andthe transmitting integrated circuit device, the micro controller unitcoupled to a memory resource configured with the micro controller tostore raw data from information derived from four receive lanes, themicro controller unit being coupled to a clock.

In an example, each antenna array comprises 1 TX and four RX. In anexample, the system has a switch device coupled between each of thethree antenna arrays and four receive lanes each of which is coupled tothe receiving integrated circuit device, one transmit lane coupled to atransmitting integrated circuit device, and a micro controller unitcoupled to a bus coupled to the receiving integrated circuit device andthe transmitting integrated circuit device, the micro controller unitcoupled to a memory resource configured with the micro controller tostore raw data from information derived from four receive lanes, themicro controller unit being coupled to a clock.

In an example, the present techniques include a method, apparatus, anddevice for processing signals. As shown 1400 in FIG. 14, the presentFMCW device operates at 24 GHz ISM band with multiple antenna arrays1401, 1403, 1405. In an example, the device has various capabilities,such as a combined horizontal field-of-view of 360 degrees, a range of≥12 meters, a FPS equal to or greater than 1000 per Tx-Rx,programmability of various parameters, among other elements. In anexample, each of the antenna array including TX and RX communicates toFMCW modules, as shown. The three antenna array are arranged in atriangular configuration, each of which has a viewing range of 120Degrees.

Referring now to FIG. 15, the device 1500 has various elements, such asantenna array 1, antenna array 2, and antenna array 3. In an example,the device has a 360 degree horizontal field-of-view to be achievedusing three sets of antenna arrays, each covering 120 degrees (as widevertical field-of-view as possible). In an example, each antenna arrayconsists of 2 TX and 4 RX. In an example, the device has an fps of 1000per TX-RX is achieved by generating 6 chirps for the 6 TX sequentiallywithin 1 milliseconds. Of course, there can be other variations,modifications, and alternatives.

As shown in the Table in FIG. 16, various device parameters aredescribed. In an example, the parameters listed are suggested and can bemodified or replaced to minimize cost and complexity, while achievingdesired performance. In an example,

sampled radar data are accessed via USB interface by a compute module,which is part of the overall system. In an example, the device has adata transfer rate of 6.14 MBps (e.g., 1000 fps×128 samples/frame×2bytes×8 antenna×3 modules.) In an example, the device has amicrocontroller, such as a one from Cypress Semiconductor, including amemory resource to store raw radar data. In an example, the device has amemory that has a capacity of 2 gigabits or greater. In an example,multiple configurations are described throughout the presentspecification and more particularly below.

In an example, FIG. 17 illustrates a simplified diagram 1700 of a systemarchitecture for the FMCW device according to an example of the presentinvention. In an example, the present system has three antenna array1701 each of which has 2-TX plus 4-RX (i.e., 8 virtual array). Eachantenna array is coupled to a dual channel TX, quad channel RX, quadchannel AFE RX, and FMCW frequency generator 1703. In an example, thesystem has a radio frequency (RF) module including a dual channel TXunder part number ADF5901 by Analog Devices, Inc. In an example, thesystem has a quad channel RX listed under part number ADF5904 by AnalogDevices. The system also has a quad channel AFE RX listed under partnumber ADAR7251 by Analog Devices. Additionally, the system has a FMCWgenerator listed under ADF4159 by Analog Devices. The system has amicrocontroller 1705 listed under part number Cypress MicrocontrollerCYYSB301X, which is coupled to system memory, such as 2 GB—SDRAM, a SPIinterface control between RF module and microcontroller. The system alsohas the microcontroller connected to TCP via a universal serial bus, USB1707. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, andalternatives.

In an example, FIG. 18 illustrates a simplified diagram 1800 of a systemarchitecture for the FMCW device according to an example of the presentinvention. In an example, the system has three antenna arrays 1801, eachof which has 2-TX+4-RX (i.e., 8 virtual array). In an example, thesystem has an radio frequency module, RF module 1803. The RF module hasa dual channel TX listed under part number ADF5901 by Analog Devices,Inc. The module has a quad channel RX listed under ADF5904 by AnalogDevices.

In an example, the system has a processing and acquisition module 1807.The module has a quad channel AFE RX listed under ADAR7251 by AnalogDevices, and a FMCW generator listed under ADF4159. The module iscoupled to and communicates with a 12 channel—3:1 demux switches 1805listed under TS3DV621 by Texas Instruments Incorporated. The system hasa microcontroller such as a Cypress Microcontroller listed under partnumber CYYSB301X, which is coupled to a memory resource, such as a 2 GBSDRAM. The system has a SPI Interface control between RF module andmicrocontroller. A USB interface is coupled to TCP 1809. Of course,there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives. Furtherdetails can be found in a more detailed diagram 1850 of FIG. 18A, asdescribed below.

In an example on a transmit lane 1851 referring to FIG. 18A, themicrocontroller is coupled to a wave form generator to output a digitalsignal (e.g., in a register programming) that is converted in an analogto digital converter to a base band analog signal, which is fed to theswitch. The switch is an analog switch that selects between one of thethree arrays. The base band analog in transmitted to an RF integratedcircuit that configures the base band analog into the FMCW rf signal tobe transmitted via the TX antenna.

In an example on a receive lane 1853, four FMCW signals are receivedfrom four RX antenna. The four signals are received in parallel, and fedto and processed in the Rf integrated circuit to output correspondingfour base band analog signals, each of which is fed to the switch. Theswitch allows signals from one of the three antenna array to betransferred to corresponding analog to digital converters, each of whichare in parallel. Each analog to digital converter is coupled to themicrocontroller. Each analog to digital converter configures incomingbase band signal into digital, which is fed to the microcontroller. Ofcourse, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

In an example, FIG. 19 illustrates a simplified diagram 1900 of a systemarchitecture for the FMCW device according to an example of the presentinvention. The system has three antenna arrays 1901, each of which has2-TX+4-RX (i.e., 8 virtual array). The system has an RF switch 1903 toswitch between any one of the antenna arrays. In an example the systemhas an rf module and acquisition module 1905. The RF module and theacquisition module has a dual channel TX listed under ADF5901 by AnalogDevices. The module has a quad channel RX listed under ADF5904 by AnalogDevices, a quad Channel AFE RX listed under ADAR7251 by Analog Devices,and a FMCW generator listed under ADF4159 by Analog Devices. The modulehas a microcontroller such as the Cypress Microcontroller listed underCYYSB301X by Cypress Semiconductor, Inc. The microcontroller is coupledto a memory resource such as a 2 GB—SDRAM device. The system also has aninterface such as a SPI Interface control 1907 between RF module andCypress microcontroller. The system also has a serial interface such asthe USB interface to connect to TCP. Of course, there can be othervariations, modifications, and alternatives.

FIG. 20 is a simplified example of an antenna array according to anembodiment of the present invention. As shown, serial fed patch antennascan be included. In an example, each antenna array 2001 has 2 TX and 4RX, or can have variations. In an example, each RX covers 120 degreeshorizontal field-of-view. In an example, the Rx has a desirable widevertical field-of-view. In an example, the antenna array has four (4) RXin an antenna array that are equally spaced by lambda over twohorizontally.

In an example, each antenna array has two (2) TX in an antenna arraythat are spaced by lambda apart horizontally and lambda over twovertically to form a virtual 2D array with the 4 RX 2003. In an example,the present virtual antenna mapping is provided to achieve the goal ofpower balancing the physical channels across the multiple physicalantennas especially when multiple input multiple output is deployed inthe downlink. In an example, virtual antenna mapping gives an illusionthat there are actually lesser antennas at the base station than itactually has. The unbalanced balanced power across two transmits pathsare transformed into balanced power at physical antenna ports by virtualantenna mapping. This is achieved using phase and amplitudecoefficients. Thus both the power amplifiers are optimally used even forsignals transmitted on the first antenna. Of course, there can be othervariations, modifications, and alternatives.

In an example, use of higher power with FMCW can be used to capture moregranular features, such as breathing, heart rate, and other small scalefeatures. In an example, lower power and UWB is desirable for more grossfeatures, which has lower frequency. Lower frequency can also penetratewalls, and other physical features.

In an example, the present invention provides an FMCW sensor apparatus.The apparatus has at least three transceiver modules. Each of thetransceiver modules has an antenna array to be configured to sense aback scatter of electromagnetic energy from spatial location of a zerodegree location in relation to a mid point of the device through a 360degrees range where each antenna array is configured to sense a 120degree range. In an example, each of the antenna array has a supportmember, a plurality of receiving antenna, a receiver integrated circuitcoupled to the receiving antenna and configured to receive an incomingFMCW signal and covert the incoming FMCW signal into a base band signal,and a plurality of transmitting antenna. Each antenna array has atransmitter integrated circuit coupled to the transmitting antenna totransmit an outgoing FMCW signal. The apparatus has a virtual antennaarray configured from the plurality of receiving antenna and theplurality of transmitting antenna to form a larger spatial region usingthe virtual antenna array, than a physical spatial region of theplurality of receiving antenna. In an example, the apparatus has atriangular configuration comprising a first antenna array, a secondantenna array, and a third antenna array included in the at least threeantenna arrays to provide a 360 degree visibility range as measured froma horizontal plane, and a 80 degree visibility range as measured from avertical plane normal to the horizontal plane. The apparatus has amaster control board coupled to each of the support members, andconfigured in a normal directional manner with reference to each of thesupport members. The apparatus has a housing enclosing the at leastthree transceiver modules.

In an example, the FMCW sensor apparatus comprises a switch configuredbetween a plurality of FMCW transceivers, such that the switch isconfigured to select one of the three antenna arrays to sense the backscatters while the other two antenna arrays are turned off. In anexample, the antenna array is configured to process electromagneticradiation in a frequency range of 24 GHz to 24.25 GHz.

In an example, apparatus has a controller configured to control theswitch and the three antenna array. In an example, the controller cyclesthrough a predetermined process to decide which one of the three antennaarray to activate while the other two antenna arrays are turned off. Inan example, the three antenna array are configured to senseelectromagnetic energy in a 24 GHz to 24.25 GHz frequency band. In anexample, the sensing apparatus is spatially positioned within a centerof a geographic location of a room to detect movement of human user. Inan example, each of the sensor arrays is provided on a substrate memberto be configured in the triangular configuration.

In an example, the apparatus has a housing. The housing has a maximumlength of six to twenty four inches and width of no longer than sixinches. In an example, the housing has sufficient structural strength tostand upright and protect an interior region within the housing.

In an example, the apparatus has a height characterizing the housingfrom a bottom region to a top region, a plurality of levels within thehousing numbered from 1 to N, and a speaker device configured within thehousing and over the bottom region. In an example, the apparatus has acompute module comprising a processing device over the speaker device,an artificial intelligence module configured over the compute module, aultra-wide band (“UWB”) module comprising an antenna array configuredover the artificial intelligence module, and an audio module configuredover the FMWC module. The apparatus has an inertial measurement unit(“IMU”) module configured over the FMCW module.

In an example, the speaker device, the compute module, the artificialintelligence module, the UWB module, the FMCW module, the audio module,and the IMU module are arranged in a stacked configuration andconfigured, respectively, in the plurality of levels numbered from 1 toN.

In an example, the speaker device comprises an audio output configuredto be included in the housing, the speaker device being configured tooutput energy within a 360 degree range from a midpoint of the device.

In an example, the compute module comprises a microprocessor based unitcoupled to a bus. In example, the compute module comprises a signalprocessing core, a micro processor core for an operating system, asynchronizing processing core configured to time stamp, and synchronizeincoming information from each of the FMCW module, IMU module, and UWBmodule.

In an example, the apparatus has a real time processing unit configuredto control the FMCW switch or the UWB switch or other switch requiring areal time switching operation of less than ½ milliseconds of receivingfeedback from a plurality of sensors. In an example, the apparatus has agraphical processing unit configured to process information from theartificial intelligence module.

In an example, the artificial intelligence module comprises anartificial intelligence inference accelerator configured to apply atrained module using a neural net based process, the neural net basedprocess comprising a plurality of nodes numbered form 1 through N.

In an example, the FMCW module comprises at least three antenna arraysto be configured to sense a back scatter of electromagnetic energy fromspatial location of a zero degree location in relation to a mid point ofthe device through a 360 degrees range where each antenna array isconfigured to sense a 120 degree range.

In an example, each of the antenna arrays comprises a FMCW transceiverand a switch configured between each of the FMCW transceiver and acontroller, such that the switch is configured to select one of thethree antenna arrays and the FMWC transceiver to sense the back scatterswhile the other two antenna arrays are turned off, and furthercomprising a serial interface.

In an example, the audio module comprises a micro phone array fordetecting energy in a frequency range of sound for communication and fordetecting a sound energy.

In an example, the UMU module comprises a support substrate, anelectrical interface provided on the support structure, an accelerometercoupled to the electrical interface, a gyroscope coupled to theelectrical interface, a compass coupled to the electrical interface, aUV detector configured to detect ultraviolet radiation coupled to theinterface, a pressure sensor coupled to the interface, and anenvironmental gas detector configured and coupled to the interface todetect a chemical entity.

In an example, the present invention provides an apparatus forprocessing activities of a human user. The apparatus has an audio moduleand a compute module coupled to the audio module. The apparatus has atransceiver module coupled to the compute module. In an example, thetransceiver module has an antenna array to be configured to sense a backscatter of electromagnetic energy in a frequency range of 24 GHz to24.25 GHz from spatial location of a zero degree location in relation toa mid point of the device through a 360 degrees range where each antennaarray is configured to sense a 120 degree range.

In an example, the antenna array comprises a support member, a pluralityof receiving antenna, a receiver integrated circuit coupled to thereceiving antenna and configured to receive an incoming frequencymodulated continuous wave (FMCW) signal and covert the incoming FMCWsignal into a base band signal, a plurality of transmitting antenna, atransmitter integrated circuit coupled to the transmitting antenna totransmit an outgoing FMCW signal.

In an example, the apparatus has a virtual antenna array configured fromthe plurality of receiving antenna and the plurality of transmittingantenna to form a larger spatial region using the virtual antenna array,than a physical spatial region of the plurality of receiving antenna. Inan example the apparatus has a master control board coupled to thesupport member, and configured in a normal directional manner withreference to the support member and a housing enclosing the transceivermodules, the compute module, and the audio module.

In an example, the present invention has methods using the apparatus,device, and systems. In an example, the method is for processing signalsfrom human activities. The method includes generating an rf signal usinga transceiver module coupled to a compute module and emitting the rfsignal using one of three antenna array and sensing using one of thethree antenna array configured from spatial location of a zero degreelocation in relation to a mid point of the three antenna array through a360 degrees range where each antenna array is configured to sense a 120degree range to capture a back scatter of electromagnetic energy in afrequency range of 24 GHz to 24.25 GHz associated with a human activity.

In an example, the technique transfers learned information and activityinformation to third parties. The technique teaches itself to learn highlevel behavior that are indicative of a persons welfare using artificialintelligence techniques. In an example, the present technique will thengenerate summary of such activities and send it out to the human's lovedones, caretaker or even emergency response team depending on the urgencyof the situation. For example for regular days, the technique can simplysend short summary like “your mom had a routine activity today”, or “Shewas much less active today.” In an example, where the human has a caretaker visiting few times a week, the technique can send a notificationto them, “It seems she struggles more on yesterday”, so that the caretaker can pay a visit to make sure everything is fine. Alternatively,the technique can be more acute events like fall, shortness ofbreathing, or others, that needs quick attention. In these scenarios,the technique can notify medical response team to provide immediatehelp. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, andalternatives.

In an example, the present technique can categorize a human target withthe listed ADLs, among others. Examples of ADLs including among others,bathing, brushing teeth, dressing, using toilet, eating and drinking,and sleeping. Other ADLs include preparing meals, preparing drinks,resting, housekeeping, using a telephone, taking medicine, and others.Ambulatory activities including among others walking, doing exercise(e.g., running, cycling), transitional activities (e.g., sit-to-stand,sit-to-lie, stand-to-sit, lie-to-sit in and out of bed or chair), andstationary activities (e.g., sits in sofa, stand for a while, lie in bedor sofa). Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, andalternatives.

In an alternative example, the present technique can determineactivities of a human target with any one of the activities listed. Thelisted activities, including among others, and combinations of goingout, preparing breakfast, having breakfast, preparing lunch, havinglunch, preparing dinner, having dinner, washing dishes, having snack,sleeping, watching TV, studying, having a shower, toileting, having anap, using the Internet, reading a book, shaving, brushing teeth,telephone, listening to music, doing house cleaning, having aconversation, entertain guest, among others.

In an example, the present technique can also identify a rare event. Inan example, the technique identifies when a senior human falls inside ahome with no one around. In an example, the technique is robust, withoutany false negatives. In an example, the technique uses looking atsequence of events that are before to the potential fall and after apotential fall. In an example, the technique combines the contextualinformation to robustly determine if a fall has occurred. Of course,there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.

In an example, the technique also detects and measures vital signs ofeach human target by continuous, non-intrusive method. In an example,the vital signs of interest include a heart rate and a respiratory rate,which can provide valuable information about the human's wellness.Additionally, the heart rate and respiratory rate can also be used toidentify a particular person, if more than two target humans living in ahome. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, andalternatives.

By understanding the context of how the target human (e.g., elderly) isdoing, the technique can also provide valuable feedback directly to theelderly using a voice interface. For example, the technique can sense amood of the human based on sequence of activities and vital signs of thehuman and then ask, “Hi do you want me to call your son”. Based upon thefeedback from the human, the technique can help connect to a third party(or loved one) if their answer is positive. Of course, there can beother alternatives, variations, and modifications.

Having described various embodiments, examples, and implementations, itshould be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that theforegoing is illustrative only and not limiting, having been presentedby way of example only. Many other schemes for distributing functionsamong the various functional elements of the illustrated embodiment orexample are possible. The functions of any element may be carried out invarious ways in alternative embodiments or examples.

Also, the functions of several elements may, in alternative embodimentsor examples, be carried out by fewer, or a single, element. Similarly,in some embodiments, any functional element may perform fewer, ordifferent, operations than those described with respect to theillustrated embodiment or example. Also, functional elements shown asdistinct for purposes of illustration may be incorporated within otherfunctional elements in a particular implementation. Also, the sequencingof functions or portions of functions generally may be altered. Certainfunctional elements, files, data structures, and so one may be describedin the illustrated embodiments as located in system memory of aparticular or hub. In other embodiments, however, they may be locatedon, or distributed across, systems or other platforms that areco-located and/or remote from each other. For example, any one or moreof data files or data structures described as co-located on and “local”to a server or other computer may be located in a computer system orsystems remote from the server. In addition, it will be understood bythose skilled in the relevant art that control and data flows betweenand among functional elements and various data structures may vary inmany ways from the control and data flows described above or indocuments incorporated by reference herein. More particularly,intermediary functional elements may direct control or data flows, andthe functions of various elements may be combined, divided, or otherwiserearranged to allow parallel processing or for other reasons. Also,intermediate data structures of files may be used and various describeddata structures of files may be combined or otherwise arranged.

In other examples, combinations or sub-combinations of the abovedisclosed invention can be advantageously made. The block diagrams ofthe architecture and flow charts are grouped for ease of understanding.However it should be understood that combinations of blocks, additionsof new blocks, re-arrangement of blocks, and the like are contemplatedin alternative embodiments of the present invention.

The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in anillustrative rather than a restrictive sense. It will, however, beevident that various modifications and changes may be made thereuntowithout departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention asset forth in the claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An FMCW sensor apparatus comprising: atleast three transceiver modules, the transceiver modules having at leastthree antenna arrays, respectively, each of the at least three antennaarrays configured to sense a back scatter of electromagnetic energy fromspatial location of a zero degree location in relation to a mid point ofthe device through a 360 degrees range where each antenna array isconfigured to sense a 120 degree range, each of the at least threeantenna arrays comprising: support member; a plurality of receivingantenna; a receiver integrated circuit coupled to the receiving antennaand configured to receive an incoming FMCW signal and covert theincoming FMCW signal into a base band signal; a plurality oftransmitting antenna; a transmitter integrated circuit coupled to thetransmitting antenna to transmit an outgoing FMCW signal; a virtualantenna array configured from the plurality of receiving antenna and theplurality of transmitting antenna to form a larger spatial region usingthe virtual antenna array, than a physical spatial region of theplurality of receiving antenna, the at least three antenna arraysincluding a first antenna array, a second antenna array, and a thirdantenna array to provide a 360 degree visibility range as measured froma horizontal plane, and a 80 degree visibility range as measured from avertical plane normal to the horizontal plane; and a housing enclosingthe at least three transceiver modules.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1wherein the FMCW sensor apparatus comprises a switch configured betweena plurality of FMCW transceivers, such that the switch is configured toselect one of the three antenna arrays to sense the back scatters whilethe other two antenna arrays are turned off; wherein antenna array beingconfigured to process electromagnetic radiation in a frequency range of24 GHz to 24.25 GHz.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2 further comprising acontroller configured to control the switch and the three antenna array,the controller cycles through a predetermined process to decide whichone of the three antenna array to activate while the other two antennaarrays are turned off.
 4. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the threeantenna array are configured to sense electromagnetic energy in a 24 GHzto 24.25 GHz frequency band.
 5. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein thesensing apparatus is spatially positioned within a center of ageographic location of a room to detect movement of human user.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 1 wherein each of the first, second, and thirdantenna arrays is provided on a substrate member to be configured in atriangular configuration.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein thehousing is positioned within a spatial region in a house.
 8. Theapparatus of claim 1 wherein the housing has a maximum length of six totwenty four inches and width of no longer than six inches, the housinghaving sufficient structural strength to stand upright and protect aninterior region within the housing and a height characterizing thehousing from a bottom region to a top region, a plurality of levelsbeing within the housing numbered from 1 to N, the apparatus furthercomprising: a speaker device configured within the housing and over thebottom region; a compute module comprising a processing device over thespeaker device; an artificial intelligence module configured over thecompute module; an ultra-wide band (“UWB”) module comprising an antennaarray configured over the artificial intelligence module; an audiomodule configured over the FMWC module; and an inertial measurement unit(“IMU”) module configured over the FMCW module.
 9. The device of claim 8wherein the speaker device, the compute module, the artificialintelligence module, the UWB module, the FMCW module, the audio module,and the IMU module are arranged in a stacked configuration andconfigured, respectively, in the plurality of levels numbered from 1 toN.
 10. The device of claim 8 wherein the speaker device comprises anaudio output configured to be included in the housing, the speakerdevice being configured to output energy within a 360 degree range froma midpoint of the device.
 11. The device of claim 8 wherein the computemodule comprises a microprocessor based unit coupled to a bus, thecompute module comprises a signal processing core, a micro processorcore for an operating system, a synchronizing processing core configuredto time stamp, and synchronize incoming information from each of theFMCW module, IMU module, and UWB module.
 12. The device of claim 4further comprising a real time processing unit configured to control theFMCW switch or a UWB switch or other switch requiring a real timeswitching operation of less than ½ milliseconds of receiving feedbackfrom a plurality of sensors.
 13. The device of claim 8 furthercomprising a graphical processing unit configured to process informationfrom the artificial intelligence module.
 14. The device of claim 8wherein the artificial intelligence module comprises an artificialintelligence inference accelerator configured to apply a trained moduleusing a neural net based process, the neural net based processcomprising a plurality of nodes numbered form 1 through N.
 15. Thedevice of claim 1 wherein the FMCW module comprises at least threeantenna arrays to be configured to sense a back scatter ofelectromagnetic energy from spatial location of a zero degree locationin relation to a mid point of the device through a 360 degrees rangewhere each antenna array is configured to sense a 120 degree range. 16.The device of claim 9 wherein each of the antenna arrays comprises aFMCW transceiver and a switch configured between each of the FMCWtransceiver and a controller, such that the switch is configured toselect one of the three antenna arrays and the FMWC transceiver to sensethe back scatters while the other two antenna arrays are turned off; andfurther comprising a serial interface.
 17. The device of claim 8 whereinthe audio module comprises a micro phone array for detecting energy in afrequency range of sound for communication and for detecting a soundenergy.
 18. The device of claim 8 wherein the IMU module comprises: asupport substrate; an electrical interface provided on the supportstructure; an accelerometer coupled to the electrical interface; agyroscope coupled to the electrical interface; a compass coupled to theelectrical interface; a UV detector configured to detect ultravioletradiation coupled to the electrical interface; a pressure sensor coupledto the electrical interface; and an environmental gas detectorconfigured and coupled to the electrical interface to detect a chemicalentity.
 19. An apparatus for processing activities of a human user, theapparatus comprising: an audio module; a compute module coupled to theaudio module; a transceiver module coupled to the compute module, thetransceiver module having an antenna array to be configured to sense aback scatter of electromagnetic energy in a frequency range of 24 GHz to24.25 GHz from spatial location of a zero degree location in relation toa mid point of the device through a 360 degrees range where each antennaarray is configured to sense a 120 degree range, the antenna arraycomprising: a support member; a plurality of receiving antenna; areceiver integrated circuit coupled to the receiving antenna andconfigured to receive an incoming frequency modulated continuous wave(FMCW) signal and covert the incoming FMCW signal into a base bandsignal; a plurality of transmitting antenna; a transmitter integratedcircuit coupled to the transmitting antenna to transmit an outgoing FMCWsignal; a virtual antenna array configured from the plurality ofreceiving antenna and the plurality of transmitting antenna to form alarger spatial region using the virtual antenna array, than a physicalspatial region of the plurality of receiving antenna; and a housingenclosing the transceiver modules, the compute module, and the audiomodule.
 20. A method of processing signals from human activities, themethod comprising: generating an rf signal using a transceiver modulecoupled to a compute module and emitting the rf signal using one ofthree antenna array; and sensing using one of the three antenna arrayconfigured from spatial location of a zero degree location in relationto a mid point of the three antenna array through a 360 degrees rangewhere each antenna array is configured to sense a 120 degree range tocapture a back scatter of electromagnetic energy in a frequency range of24 GHz to 24.25 GHz associated with a human activity, the antenna arraycomprising: a support member; a plurality of receiving antenna; areceiver integrated circuit coupled to the receiving antenna andconfigured to receive an incoming frequency modulated continuous wave(FMCW) signal and covert the incoming FMCW signal into a base bandsignal; a plurality of transmitting antenna; and a transmitterintegrated circuit coupled to the transmitting antenna to transmit anoutgoing FMCW signal.